INTERVIEW: Makeup Artist Adam Burrell

You are a very successful and inspiring makeup artist, what motivates and inspires you in your profession?

The love for my job motivates me. The only way to keep moving through this crazy game is to have a genuine love for what you do. Inspiration wise, my clients inspire me. Getting to work on a diverse group of women of all ages and races, in all different areas of the entertainment industry, with different needs and tastes inspires me a lot.

What advice would you give to young, aspiring makeup artists?

My friend and fellow makeup artist Harriet Hatfield has created the most amazing online course called Level Up and I’d urge any aspiring makeup artist to sign up. It covers everything you could possibly need to know about moving up the makeup artist ladder. There’s priceless advice I wish I’d known 15 years ago when I started. Pure gold.

What would be the main obstacles you had to face to succeed in your career?

The road is full of obstacles, let me tell you, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ll start at the beginning though and say the main obstacle for me was trying to make ends meet at the start of my career. That transition from being a department store makeup artist, with a guaranteed regular pay check, to being a full time freelancer, where pay checks are few and far between, was a challenge and I don’t know how I did it to be honest, but I did. It’s just a leap of faith. If you work really hard, are good at what you do and nice to people, it’ll happen.

What is the makeup/ skincare trend that gets you excited right now?

I’ve never been massively into beauty trends, I always just do what I think will make whoever is in my chair most beautiful or what I think will look good with the outfit. Timeless beauty is always my favourite.

What would be your favorite Bioderma product and why?

It has to be the cult favourite Sensibio H2O Micellar Water. Whenever I’d assist makeup artist back in the day I’d see it in their kits, and I’ve had it in my kit ever since. It does what I need it to do and I love that it’s really gentle, with no scent or any crazy ingredients so there’s no worry about anyone having a problem.

What can we wish you for 2021?

A mask free year!

Throughout his career, jump-started by working on the X-Factor UK makeup team in 2008, Adam Burrell has shown a true devotion to his craft, while skillfully showcasing his art background, conferring him a unique and recognisable touch. Check out his work on his IG, or visit his personal website HERE